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Connecticut Yankee Follows In The Footsteps Of Walton

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The Complete Angler: A Connecticut Yankee Follows in the Footsteps of Walton

by James Prosek

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1404 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	336 pages
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A Photograph Of A Man Wearing Waders And Holding A Fishing Rod, Standing In A River. The Complete Angler: A Connecticut Yankee Follows In The Footsteps Of Walton

Izaak Walton, the renowned 17th-century author of The Compleat Angler, is one of the most beloved figures in the world of fishing and literature. His classic work, first published in 1653, has inspired generations of anglers and nature lovers with its charming prose, practical advice, and philosophical reflections.

In this article, I will follow in the footsteps of Walton, traveling to the places he fished and wrote about in The Compleat Angler. I will explore his life and work, and share my own experiences of fishing in the beautiful rivers and streams of England.

Walton's Life and Work

Izaak Walton was born in Stafford, England, in 1593. He was the son of a linen draper, and he received a basic education at a local grammar school. At the age of 16, he was apprenticed to a London ironmonger. Walton eventually became a successful businessman, and he retired from trade in 1643.

Walton's passion for fishing began at an early age. He often fished the River Lea, which flows through London. In 1653, he published The Compleat Angler, which quickly became a bestseller. The book is a practical guide to fishing, but it is also much more than that. It is a celebration of the joys of fishing, and it is filled with Walton's wit, wisdom, and love of nature.

The Compleat Angler has been translated into many languages, and it has been praised by writers as diverse as Samuel Johnson, Charles Dickens, and George Orwell. It is considered to be one of the greatest works of English literature, and it continues to inspire anglers and nature lovers today.

My Journey

I began my journey in London, where I visited the Lea Valley Park, which is now home to the River Lea. I imagined Walton fishing these waters centuries ago, and I could almost hear the sound of his laughter and the splash of his line.

From London, I traveled to Winchester, where Walton spent his later years. I visited the Winchester Cathedral, where Walton is buried, and I paid my respects to this great man.

I then traveled to the River Test, which is one of the most famous trout streams in England. I fished the Test for a few days, and I was amazed by the beauty of the river and the quality of the fishing.

Finally, I traveled to the River Dove, which is another of Walton's favorite fishing spots. I fished the Dove for a few days, and I caught some of the most beautiful trout of my life.

My journey in the footsteps of Izaak Walton was an unforgettable experience. I learned a great deal about his life and work, and I gained a deeper appreciation for the joys of fishing and the beauty of the English countryside.

I encourage all anglers and nature lovers to follow in Walton's footsteps. It is a journey that will enrich your life and leave you with a lasting love of fishing and the great outdoors.

The Complete Angler: A Connecticut Yankee Follows in the Footsteps of Walton

by James Prosek

4.7 out of 5